Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dish that will impress family and friends, my Huli Huli Chicken Recipe is just what you need! This Hawaiian BBQ chicken is slathered in a sweet and tangy teriyaki-like sauce that makes every bite feel like a mini-vacation. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe brings joy and flavor to the table.

What I love most about this Huli Huli Chicken is how the marinade infuses the chicken with incredible flavor as it grills. The combination of fresh pineapple juice, ginger, and soy sauce creates an irresistible taste that everyone raves about. Plus, it’s super simple to prepare!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time, you can whip this up quickly, leaving you more time to enjoy with loved ones.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: The sweet flavors make it a hit with kids and adults alike—everyone loves a tasty BBQ!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Marinate the chicken overnight for extra flavor, making mealtime effortless.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The balance of sweet and tangy from the marinade guarantees mouthwatering bites every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk ingredients! For this Huli Huli Chicken Recipe, you’ll be using simple, wholesome ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Gather these up for a delightful meal!

For the Chicken

• 4-5 pounds boneless (skinless chicken thighs)

For the Marinade

• ½ cup packed light brown sugar
• ½ cup ketchup
• ½ cup light soy sauce
• ½ cup pineapple juice (canned)
• 1 tablespoon ginger paste (or minced ginger)
• 1 tablespoon garlic paste (or minced garlic)
• 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon coarse black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)

For Grilling

• Pineapple rings – 1 pineapple or 1 can of slices (drained)
• ½ cup sliced green onions (for garnish)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize it to fit your tastes or dietary preferences. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken breast instead of thighs for a leaner option.
• Add some heat: Incorporate some sriracha or red pepper flakes into the marinade for a spicy kick!
• Go vegetarian: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or grilled vegetables for a delightful twist.
• Try different fruits: Swap out pineapple for mango or peaches for an exciting summer flavor!

How to Make Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by rinsing your chicken thighs under cold water and pat them dry. In a large bowl or gallon-size Ziploc bag, combine all the marinade ingredients except for the chicken. Mixing well ensures that all those delicious flavors meld together beautifully. Once mixed, reserve half a cup of this mixture—this will be used later as a glaze.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in your marinade mixture and make sure each piece is thoroughly coated. This step is crucial because marinating allows those amazing flavors to soak into the meat. Cover or seal your container and pop it in the fridge for at least four hours—or even better, overnight!

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F). It’s important to have your grill hot so that it sears the chicken perfectly while keeping it juicy inside. Lightly brush your grill grates with oil to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Place your marinated chicken on the heated grill without moving it for about ten minutes. This helps develop beautiful grill marks and lock in moisture. After ten minutes, flip each piece and continue cooking until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F—about another ten minutes.

Step 5: Grill Pineapple Rings

While your chicken is grilling away, add those pineapple rings onto the grill when it’s halfway through cooking. They will caramelize beautifully and add an even sweeter taste that complements your BBQ chicken perfectly.

Step 6: Glaze and Serve

Once everything is grilled to perfection, remove it from heat. Brush your reserved marinade over each piece of chicken for an extra flavor boost! If you prefer a thicker glaze, you can simmer that reserved sauce on low heat in a small saucepan until it thickens slightly before brushing it on.

Now you’re ready to serve up this delightful Huli Huli Chicken! Garnish with sliced green onions and enjoy every delicious bite with family and friends!

Pro Tips for Making Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

Making Huli Huli Chicken is a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll be sure to impress everyone at your table!

• Marinate Longer: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it becomes. Aim for at least 8 hours or even overnight if you can; this will allow the flavors to penetrate deeply.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh ginger and garlic instead of pastes. They provide a brighter flavor and add an extra layer of freshness to your dish.
• Monitor Grill Temperature: Keeping your grill at medium-high heat (around 400°F) ensures that the chicken cooks evenly without drying out. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—it should reach 165°F.
• Don’t Skip the Pineapple Rings: Grilling pineapple not only enhances its sweetness but also adds a lovely caramelized texture that complements the tangy chicken beautifully.
• Save Some Marinade: Remember to reserve some marinade before adding it to the chicken. This acts as a flavorful glaze when brushing over the grilled chicken, making each bite even more delicious!

How to Serve Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

Serving Huli Huli Chicken is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary sides. Here are some ideas to make your meal unforgettable!

Garnishes

• Sliced Green Onions: A sprinkle of freshly sliced green onions adds a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that brightens up each bite.
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds not only enhance the visual appeal but also introduce a nutty crunch that pairs wonderfully with the chicken.

Side Dishes

• Coconut Rice: This fragrant rice is cooked with coconut milk, providing a rich and creamy base that beautifully balances out the flavors of the tangy chicken.
• Grilled Vegetables: A colorful medley of zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus tossed in olive oil and herbs brings freshness and texture to your plate.
• Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers dressed in a sesame vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that complements the sweetness of the chicken.
• Quinoa Salad: Lightly seasoned quinoa mixed with diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and herbs makes for a nutritious side that pairs well with grilled dishes.

With these serving ideas and pro tips, your Huli Huli Chicken will not only taste amazing but also look beautiful on your dining table! Enjoy every bite of this Hawaiian-inspired dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Huli Huli Chicken recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy delicious flavors throughout the week. With just a little planning, you can have this tasty dish ready to go for quick lunches or dinners.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place the chicken in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Cool the chicken completely and place it in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw the chicken overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through (about 20-25 minutes).
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until hot.

FAQs

If you’re curious about Huli Huli Chicken, you’re not alone! Here are some common questions that might help you out.

What is Huli Huli Chicken?

Huli Huli Chicken is a Hawaiian-style BBQ chicken marinated in a sweet and tangy sauce made from ingredients like pineapple juice and soy sauce. It’s grilled to perfection for that irresistible flavor.

How long should I marinate the chicken for this Huli Huli Chicken Recipe?

For the best flavor, marinate your chicken thighs for at least 4 hours, but if you have time, letting them soak overnight will enhance the taste even more.

Can I use other cuts of chicken for this Huli Huli Chicken Recipe?

Yes! While boneless skinless thighs work beautifully, you can also use chicken breasts or drumsticks. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

What should I serve with my Huli Huli Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with sides like rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also enjoy it with some tropical fruit salsa for an extra burst of flavor!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this delightful Huli Huli Chicken recipe! The combination of sweet and tangy flavors is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this recipe brings a taste of Hawaii right to your kitchen. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your experience!